Dibrugarh: The ongoing International Literary Festival at Dibrugarh University in Upper Assam sparked thought-provoking discussions on the evolving book industry, with a particular focus on the decline in traditional bookstores amidst the rise of online book sales.
A session titled “Flip Side of Amazon: Small Book Shops, Big Vision” saw writers and publishers highlight the struggles of independent booksellers in the age of e-commerce.
Aizawl-based book cafe owner Vanlalruata Ralte shared his experiences, emphasising that independent booksellers are driven by a deep passion for books rather than pure profit.
“The fire to keep my bookstore running continues to burn in my heart,” Ralte said, lamenting that many customers visit his shop, take selfies with books, but leave without making a purchase.
He also recalled a bizarre incident when a young man spent hours in his store, sneaking around the shelves and sniffing books.
“It was shocking,” Ralte said, to the amusement of the panel.
Adding to the discussion, Shillong-based poet Robin Ngangom, who was in the audience, suggested humorously but pointedly, “Book sniffing can be a new alternative to Dendrite.”
Ngangom, a professor at North Eastern Hill University (NEHU), used the moment to highlight the profound impact of substance abuse on society.
Imphal-based bookseller Martin Thokchom also shared his challenges, noting how multiple crises, including the COVID-19 pandemic and recent conflicts in Manipur, have diminished his customer base.
Despite this, Thokchom remains hopeful, urging readers to set aside conflicts and unite through books.
Pradipta Sankar Hazarika, managing director of Baani Mandir Publishing House in Dibrugarh, echoed the sentiment, stating, “Buying books from a store is an emotional experience; it allows us to feel the freshness of books.”
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However, he also acknowledged that his bookstore primarily survives through the sale of academic books and occasional book fair sales.
The four-day Dibrugarh University International Literary Festival, which began on February 5, has attracted over 120 writers from around 25 countries.
One of the highlights of the festival is the participation of Meghalaya cabinet minister and poet Paul Lyngdoh, who will contribute to one of the literary discussions.
With Africa as this year’s theme, the festival also features a strong representation from African writers, who will engage in over 50 literary sessions throughout the event.
This unique literary convergence, the first of its kind in eastern Assam, is a collaborative effort between the Foundation for Culture, Arts & Literature (FOCAL) and Dibrugarh University.
